Telecommunications initiated data fulfillment system

ABSTRACT

A system for providing a wide range of telecommunications initiated data fulfillment services in which a multi-function code, such as “*#” (star, pound), input into an originating telecommunications device, such as a conventional land-line or wireless telephone, triggers the treatment of the input sequence as a multi-function code service request rather than a dialed directory number. The multi-function code is followed by an input data string to complete the multi-function code service request, which the user typically enters into the telecommunications device just like a conventional telephone call, except that the input string begins with the multi-function code. The telecommunications system recognizes the multi-function code as a trigger, and in response takes one or more actions, such as automatically terminating the call to an announcement and routing a data message to a data fulfillment center, which responds to the message by implementing a response action indicated by the multi-function code service request. For example, the data fulfillment center may respond by transmitting a message over a wireless data network or the Internet to implement a service, such as activation of a vending machine, remote control of device, delivery of a message over the Internet or wireless data network, initiation of an interactive Internet session with the originating device, or a wide range of other services. In addition, a charge for this service may be automatically charged to an account associated with the originating telecommunications device, which may be billed separately or incorporated on the user&#39;s conventional monthly telecommunications invoice.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICTIONS

[0001] This application claim priority to commonly owned U.S.Provisional Patent Applications No. 60/265,760 filed Feb. 1, 2001 andNo. 60/242,511 filed Oct. 23, 2000.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This invention relates generally to a telecommunicationsinitiated data fulfillment system in which a telecommunications inputsequence including a multifunction code sequence, such as a “star-pound”(i.e., *#) sequence, initiates an automatic data fulfillment service.The system can be used for a wide variety of applications including butnot limited to mobile vending, mobile data delivery, mobile Internetaccess, mobile WAP communications, on-demand delivery of promotionalinformation, and many others.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Due to the communications boom brought on by the popularizationof wireless communication devices and the Internet, there presentlyexists an increasing opportunity for telecommunications initiatedservices involving these increasingly prominent media. However, theconfiguration and operation of the existing telephone networks, wirelessdata networks, and the Internet inhibits the implementation of many newservices that would rely on the integrated operation of these systems.Therefore, there presently exists an opportunity for improving theintegration of the telecommunications system, the wireless data system,and the Internet to provide a wide range of new services that can beconveniently and cost effectively provided through these media.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention meets the needs described above in a systemfor providing a wide range of telecommunications initiated datafulfillment services in which a multi-function code, such as “*#” (star,pound), input into an originating telecommunications device, such as aconventional land-line or wireless telephone, triggers the treatment ofthe input telephone sequence as a multi-function code service requestrather than a dialed directory number. The multi-function code isfollowed by an input data string to complete the multi-function codeservice request, which the user typically enters into thetelecommunications device just like a conventional telephone call,except that the input string begins with the multi-function code (e.g.,*#).

[0005] The telecommunications system recognizes the multi-function codeas a trigger, and in response takes one or more actions in response tothe trigger, such as automatically terminating the call to anannouncement and routing a data message to a data fulfillment center.This data message typically includes the multi-function code servicerequest and data string input by the customer along with identifyinginformation for the initiating telecommunications device, such as thedirectory number assigned to the originating telecommunications device.The data message may include location information pertaining to theoriginating telecommunications device, such as information identifyingthe originating MTSO and cell tower. The message is typicallytransmitted to the data fulfillment center using the telecommunicationssystem's signaling system, such as the SS7 signaling system currentlydeployed for most land-based telephone systems, or the X-25 signalingsystem currently deployed for most mobile telephone systems in theUnited States and Canada. Analogous signaling systems are deployed intelecommunications systems worldwide.

[0006] The data fulfillment center responds to the message byimplementing a response action indicated by the multi-function codeservice request. For example, the data fulfillment center may respond bytransmitting a message over a wireless data network or the Internet toimplement a service, such as activation of a vending machine, remotecontrol of device, delivery of a message over the Internet, delivery ofa message over a wireless data network, initiation of an interactiveInternet session with the originating device, or a wide range of otherservices. In addition, a charge for this service, if appropriate, may beautomatically charged to an account associated with the originatingtelecommunications device, which may be billed separately orincorporated on the user's conventional monthly telecommunicationsinvoice. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the range oftelecommunications initiated services that may be implemented in thismanner is virtually limitless, and many different services will becomeapparent once the fundamental principles of the invention areunderstood.

[0007] Generally described, the invention includes a method forimplementing a telecommunications initiated data fulfillment service. Atelecommunications switch receives a communication from atelecommunication device comprising an input sequence including amulti-function key sequence. The telecommunications switch recognizesthe multi-function key sequence as a trigger code and identifies anidentification code associated with the telecommunication device, suchas the directory number, MIN or EIN assigned to the telecommunicationdevice. In response to the detected trigger event, thetelecommunications switch looks up a pre-defined data address associatedwith the input sequence, the identification code, or a combination ofthe input sequence and the identification code. The telecommunicationsswitch then assembles a data message associated with the input sequence,the identification code, or a combination of these items, and transmitsthe data message to the data address, which is also associated with adata fulfillment platform. The data fulfillment platform associated withthe data address then implements an appropriate response action inresponse to the data message.

[0008] Typically, the data message includes at least the input sequenceand the identification code associated with telecommunication device,and may also include location information associated with theoriginating telecommunications device, such as information identifyingthe MTOS and cell tower where the multi-function code service requestwas initially received. In addition, the data address to which themessage is sent is typically associated with a data fulfillment centeror Internet service provider operated by a provider of thetelecommunications initiated data fulfillment service. This enables theservice provider to respond to the message by implementing theappropriate telecommunications initiated data fulfillment service, suchas activating a vending machine and charging an account associated withthe originating telecommunications device for the delivered product,sending an e-mail to an address associated with the originatingtelecommunications device, remotely controlling a device, initiating aninteractive Internet session with the originating telecommunicationsdevice, or performing any other suitable service.

[0009] In a mobile vending application, for example, the identificationcode may be used to identify an account associated with thetelecommunications device, and the data fulfillment center may remotelyactivate the vending machine and charge a cost associated with the datamessage to the account associated with the telecommunications device. Inparticular, the data fulfillment center may identify a product code froma pre-defined set of digits in the input sequence; and may activate thevending device to deliver a product associated with the product code inresponse to the data message. To implement security, the datafulfillment center may also look up a pre-defined PIN associated withthe telecommunications device, identify a PIN-sequence from a predefinedset of digits in the input sequence, and compare the personalidentification number to the PIN-sequence.

[0010] In addition, the telecommunications switch typically delivers anaudio or data response to the telecommunications device indicating thatthe multi-function code service request has been received. Thetelecommunications switch then discontinues the communication, whichfrees the originating telecommunications device to receive an incomingdata or telecommunications message associated with the requested datafulfillment service. For example, the telecommunications device mayreceive an incoming wireless data network communication, telephone call,or e-mail message as part of the data fulfillment service. In onealternative, the input sequence includes a directory number associatedwith an Internet site, and the data message initiates an Internetsession between the telecommunications device and the Internet site. Inthis alternative, the telecommunications switch may forward thecommunication to a platform operated by an Internet service provider,and an incoming the wireless data network communication may initiate aninteractive Internet session with the telecommunications device. Inaddition, the Internet service provider may automatically link thetelecommunications device to the Internet site associated with thedirectory number included in the input sequence at the onset of theInternet session.

[0011] The data fulfillment center may also receive location dataassociated with the telecommunications device, and customize an actiontaken in response to the data message based on the location information.For example, the location data may indicate the MTSO and cell tower thatinitially received the multi-function code service request from thetelecommunications device, and the data fulfillment center may customizeits response by sending a mobile vending activation message to a vendingmachine located in the coverage area of the identified cell tower. Thisfeature advantageously allows reuse of the vending codes in multiplelocations served by different cell towers.

[0012] The data fulfillment center may also look up customer profiledata corresponding to the identification code associated with thetelecommunications device, and implement a response in accordance withthis profile. For example, the customer profile may implement spendinglimits, location use limits, alternative addresses for routingresponses, and so forth. Typically, the customer profile may be alteredby the user, for example through Internet access. For this reason, thepredefined data address may be a user-defined portion of the customerprofile data. The data fulfillment center may also detect that thetelecommunications device does not correspond to a subscriber of thetelecommunications initiated data fulfillment service, and automaticallylink the telecommunications device to a platform configured to registerthe user of the telecommunications device as a subscriber of thetelecommunications initiated data fulfillment service.

[0013] The telecommunications device may retrieve the pre-defined dataaddress, typically the address for the data fulfillment center or anInternet service provider, from a home location register associated witha mobile telecommunication system. In addition, the data message istypically delivered to the data address through a signaling systemmessage, such as an SS7 or X-25 message. In addition, the identificationcode associated with the telecommunications device may be extracted froma call detail record created by a telecommunications switch receivingthe communication. The pre-defined data address may be retrieved from aproprietary database maintained by a provider of the telecommunicationsinitiated data fulfillment service.

[0014] In addition, the data fulfillment center may respond to the datamessage by transmitting a control signal to operate a remote device. Forexample, the response action may open a car lock or garage door,activate or deactivate a security system, program a remote device, orperform a wide range of other remote control operations. In anotheralternative, the input sequence may include a displayed item codeassociated with a product or service offered for sale. In this case, thedata fulfillment center may respond to the data message by: looking upan e-mail address associated with the telecommunications device, andtransmitting an electronic message including promotional informationconcerning the product or service offered for sale to the addressassociated with the telecommunications device.

[0015] In this specification, certain actions are described as beingperformed by a telecommunications switch and others are described asbeing performed by a data fulfillment platform. However, those skilledin the art will appreciate that these devices could be combined into asingle device or system of devices, and the invention defined by themethod and steps described herein is not limited to performance by anyparticular devices. For example, some or all of the steps described asperformed by the switch may be performed by the data fulfillmentplatform, and vice versa. In addition, a third device may be deployed toimplement certain steps. These types of variations are within the scopeof the present invention.

[0016] In addition, the originating telecommunications device is shownin certain figures and described as being a wireless or land-linetelephone device. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate thatthe originating telecommunications device may be any type of device,known at present or developed in the future, capable of initiatingtelecommunications. In particular, wireless telephones, land-linetelephones, desktop computers, portable computers, personal digitalassistants, pagers, and so forth are within the scope of the term“telecommunications device” as used in this specification. Further, themethods and systems described herein are not limited to any particulartype of telecommunication initiation, such as dialing or keypad input.Rather, the methods and systems described in this specification may workwith any type of telecommunication initiation, known at present ordeveloped in the future, such as voice recognition, auto dialing,e-mail, message relay, and the like.

[0017] In view of the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the presentinvention greatly improves the integration of the telecommunicationssystem, the wireless data system, and the Internet to provide a widerange of new services that can be conveniently and cost effectivelyprovided through these media. The specific techniques and structuresemployed by the invention as improvements over the drawbacks of thepresent telecommunications infrastructure and accomplish the advantagesdescribed above will become apparent from the following detaileddescription of the embodiments of the invention and the appendeddrawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018]FIG. 1 is a functional diagram of a mobile vending serviceimplemented by a telecommunications initiated data fulfillment system.

[0019]FIG. 2 is a functional diagram of a mobile web access serviceimplemented by a telecommunications initiated data fulfillment system.

[0020]FIG. 3 is a functional diagram of a mobile remote control serviceimplemented by a telecommunications initiated data fulfillment system.

[0021]FIG. 4 is a functional diagram of a streamlined Internet accessservice implemented by a telecommunications initiated data fulfillmentsystem.

[0022]FIG. 5 is an instruction set diagram illustrating advancedintelligent network (AIN) and call detail record (CDR) alternativeimplementation methodologies for implementing a telecommunicationsinitiated data fulfillment system.

[0023]FIG. 6 is a functional diagram of a telecommunications initiateddata fulfillment system illustrating features of a data fulfillmentdatabase.

[0024]FIG. 7 is a functional diagram of a telecommunications initiateddata fulfillment system illustrating features of implemented by an SCPor HLS.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0025] The present invention may be embodied in a telecommunicationsinitiated data fulfillment system that typically involves a number oftelecommunications switches and one or more data fulfillment platforms.The telecommunications switches are configured to recognize amulti-function code, such as “*#” (star, pound), as a trigger event. Inresponse to a detected trigger event, the receiving telecommunicationsswitch typically holds the call and looks up an instruction setassociated with the trigger, and implements that instruction set. Themulti-function code may include the “star, pound” initiation codefollowed by an instruction index indicating an instruction set to beimplemented. For example, *#1 may indicate a mobile vending instructionset, *#2 may indicate a mobile data delivery instruction set, *#3 mayindicate an Internet access instruction set, *#4 may indicate a remotecontrol instruction set, and so forth.

[0026] The instruction set for different services may vary, buttypically includes instructions or directions to the telecommunicationsswitch to route the call to an announcement, assemble a data message ofpredefined structure, and transmit the data message to an addressassociated with a data fulfillment platform. For example, theannouncement may state, “Your mobile vending request has been receivedand will be acted on immediately. Thank you.” The data message typicallyincludes the identifying information for the originatingtelecommunications device, such as the directory number assigned to thatdevice, and the multi-function code service request, which is the inputstring entered into the telecommunications device to initiate theservice. The data message may also include location data pertaining tothe originating telecommunications device, such as informationidentifying the MTSO and cell tower that initially received thecommunication from the telecommunications device. The data message istypically delivered to the data fulfillment platform using theconventional signaling system, such as the SS7 signaling system used formost land-line systems, or the X-25 signaling system used for mostmobile systems in the United States and Canada.

[0027] The data fulfillment platform typically looks up a customerprofile associated with the identifying information for the originatingtelecommunications device, which may be programmed by the customer usingan Internet interface or other suitable access method. The customerprofile specifies the customer's desired delivery terms, such as anaccount to charge for vending services, an e-mail address for deliveringdata messages, addresses for devices to be remotely controlled, and soforth. The customer profile may also include service-limiting terms,such as spending limits, security procedures, geographical use limits,and the like. In addition, the data fulfillment platform may look upinformation for responding to the data request based on the inputsequence. For example, in an Internet access service, the input sequencemay correspond to a desired Internet address, and the data fulfillmentmay initiate an Internet session between the originatingtelecommunications device and a machine associated with the desiredInternet address. In particular, the directory number assigned to aperson's wireless telephone may be associated with that same person'sInternet address, so that the input of an appropriate multi-functioncode followed by the directory number assigned to a person's wirelesstelephone may automatically cause an Internet session to be initiatedbetween the originating telecommunications device and the machineassociated with the desired Internet address.

[0028] Thus, in one embodiment, the telecommunications system recognizesthe multi-function code as a trigger, and in response automaticallyterminates the call to an announcement and routes a message to a datafulfillment center. This message typically includes the multi-functioncode service request input by the customer along with identifyinginformation for the initiating telecommunications device (e.g.,originating directory number, MIN, EIN or another suitable identifier),and may include additional information, such as location information(e.g., information identifying the originating MTSO and cell tower)pertaining to the originating telecommunications device. The message istypically transmitted to the data fulfillment center using thetelecommunications system's signaling system, such as the advancedintelligent network (AIN), the SS7 signaling system currently deployedfor most land-based telecommunications systems, or the X-25 signalingsystem currently deployed for most mobile telecommunications systems.

[0029] The data fulfillment center responds to the message byimplementing a service connoted by the multi-function code servicerequest. For example, the data fulfillment center may respond bytransmitting a message over a wireless data network or the Internet toimplement a service, such as activation of a vending machine, remotecontrol of a device, delivery of a message over the Internet, deliveryof a message over a wireless data network, or initiation of aninteractive Internet session with the originating device. A charge forthis service, if appropriate, may be automatically charged to an accountassociated with the originating telecommunications device, which may bebilled separately or incorporated on the user's conventional monthlytelecommunications invoice.

[0030] Although a virtually limitless number of service options may beinitiated and billed for, if desired, in this manner, severalparticularly strategic services are described in this specification toillustrate this technology. A first example is mobile vending, in whicha series of product codes may be displayed on a vending machine. To makea purchase, the customer enters the multi-function code, such as “*#”(star, pound), into his or her wireless telecommunications device,optionally followed by a service index (e.g., “1” to indicate mobilevending), followed by the displayed product code (e.g., a six digitnumeric code represented as “xxx yyy”) followed by his or her personalidentification number (PIN) (e.g., a four digit numeric code representedas “zzzz”). This thirteen digit data entry (e.g., *#1 xxx yyy zzzz)resembles a three digit multi function code (e.g., *#1) followed by aconventional ten digit directory number (xxx yyy zzzz). In response tothis multi-function code, the data fulfillment center transmits awireless data message to the vending machine to activate delivery of theindicated product, and charges an account associated with theoriginating telecommunications device for the purchase. Those skilled inthe art will appreciate that the process described above may be used toimplement a nationwide or worldwide cashless, secure and convenienttelecommunications initiated mobile vending system.

[0031] A second example of this technology is mobile data acquisition.For example, an advertiser may display an advertising code rather than avending code. A different service index may be used to distinguishmobile data acquisition from mobile vending (e.g., “*#2” indicatesmobile data acquisition, whereas “*#1” indicates mobile vending). Inaddition, if the user is not to be charged for this service, the user'sPIN may not be required as part of the multi-function code servicerequest. Thus, the advertising code may be up to a ten digit code, whichresults in up to a thirteen digit multi-function code service requestsimilar in format to that used for mobile vending. In response to themulti-function code service request, the data fulfillment centertypically sends an e-mail message to an e-mail address stored inassociation with the customer's originating directory number. Forexample, a restaurant may display an advertising code, and the datafulfillment center may respond to receipt of a multi-function codeservice request containing the restaurant's advertising code by emailingthe restaurant's menu to an e-mail address associated with the directorynumber assigned to the originating telecommunications device.

[0032] The system described above may be used to deliver virtually anytype of data associated with a displayed advertising code, such asproduct information, driving directions, coupons, financial prospectus,inventory listing, safety guidelines, repair instructions, schematicdiagram, event ticketing or access credentials, photograph, weatherforecast, music file, and the like. The proprietor simply displays inany appropriate media a message to the effect of, “To obtain moreinformation dial *#2 xxx yyy zzzz.” Of course, the multi-function codeservice request may be altered to provide PIN security andtransaction-based billing for the delivered data if desired. Thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that the process described above maybe used to implement a nationwide or worldwide telecommunicationsinitiated data delivery system to aid in billboard, print media,broadcast and other types of advertising and sale of information.

[0033] Additional applications of this technology, and specificimplementation details, are described below with reference to theappended figures. Turning now to the drawings, in which like numeralsrefer to like elements throughout the several figures, FIG. 1 is afunctional diagram of a mobile vending service implemented by atelecommunications initiated data fulfillment system 10. In this type ofsystem, the products to be sold are typically located within a vendingmachine 12 that includes data receiving device 14, such as a pagingunit, short messaging system (SMS), wireless data, or other suitablewireless data receiving device. Although a wireless data receivingdevice should be preferred for most applications, the data receivingdevice 14 may alternatively be a land-line device, such as a telephonedevice, Internet connection, e-mail receiving device, or any othersuitable data receiving device. The only requirement for the datareceiving device 14 is that is be operational for receiving controlcommands from a remote location for operating the vending machine 12.The vending machine may be operable to sell a wide variety of products,such as food, drinks, tokens for operating other machines, cameras,movie tickets, clothing, gasoline and so forth.

[0034] The vending machine 12 also includes a controller 16, a productdelivery apparatus 18 and a product code display 20. The controller 16is operationally interfaced with the wireless data device 14 and theproduct delivery apparatus 18, which allows the product deliveryapparatus 18 to be operated in response to control commands from aremote location by the data receiving device 14. Typically, the productcode display 20 includes a different displayed product code for eachtype of product that may be sold through the vending machine 12. In thisparticular example, the displayed product code is a six digit numericcode in the form “xxx yyy.” It will be appreciated, however, that themobile vending system 10 could utilize any other type of code that canbe entered into a telecommunications device.

[0035] To make a purchase from the vending machine 12, a customer of thetelecommunications initiated data fulfillment system 10 simply enters aneasily ascertained multi-function code service request into anoriginating telecommunications device, such as his or her mobiletelephone. For example, the multi-function code service request mayinclude a predefined multi-function code, such as *# (star, pound),which may optionally include an index connoting mobile vending (e.g.,index=1 for mobile vending), followed by the displayed product code forthe desired product, followed by the customer's personal identificationnumber (PIN), into his or her mobile telephone. Thus, the multi-functioncode service request in this instance may be “*#1 xxx yyy zzz” where“*#” is the predefined multi-function code, “1” is an index indicatingmobile vending, “xxx yyy” is the displayed product code for the desiredproduct, and “zzzz” is the customer's PIN number.

[0036] In response to receiving this multi-function code servicerequest, the mobile vending system 10 validates the customer's PIN, mayapply conditions based on a customer profile and/or location dataassociated with the originating telecommunications device, and makes adetermination whether the requesting vending purchase is authorized. Ifthe vending purchase is authorized, the mobile vending system 10remotely activates the vending machine 12 to deliver the purchasedproduct, and charges an account associated with the originatingtelecommunications device for the cost of the purchase. This cost may beseparately billed, or it may be incorporated on the customer's monthlytelecommunications invoice.

[0037] More particularly, FIG. 1 illustrates the steps implemented tocomplete the mobile vending transaction described above. In step one,the customer enters the appropriate input string 22, namely themulti-function code service request described above, into his or hertelecommunications device 24. The input string 22 is received at atrigger-enabled telecommunications switch 26, such as an advancedintelligent network (AIN) enabled system switching point (SSP) or mobiletelephone switching office (MTSO). Although this will typically be thefirst telecommunications switch to receive the input string 22, it ispossible that a prior switching device, such as a non-trigger-enabledswitch, will initially receive and route the call to the trigger-enabledtelecommunications switch 26. This switch is configured to detect andrecognize the “*#” (star, pound) multi-function code as a trigger event.In response to detecting the star, pound trigger event, the switch 26holds the call and looks up an instruction set to implement. Typically,the switch 26 may be configured to look up and implement ten differentmulti-function code instruction sets, as indicated by an index includedin the first digit following the multi-function code. For example *#1may indicate a mobile vending instruction set. Those skilled in the artwill appreciate that AIN enabled SSP and MTSO devices are conventionallyequipped to recognize trigger events, to look up instruction sets, andto implement those instruction sets. In this manner, the mobile vendingsystem 10 anticipates the use of presently existing telecommunicationssystem features to implement this new service.

[0038] The mobile vending instruction set typically instructs the switch26 to terminate the call to an appropriate announcement. For example,the announcement may state, “Your mobile vending request has beenreceived and will be acted on immediately. Thank you.” At the end of theannouncement, the call is discontinued, which frees the customer'stelecommunications device to engage in a subsequent communication. Themobile vending instruction set also instructs the switch 26 to look up adata address, assemble a data message 28, and send the data message tothe data address. For example, the data address may identify a datafulfillment platform 30 operated by the proprietor of the mobile vendingsystem 10. The data message typically includes the identifyinginformation for the originating telecommunications device 24, such asthe directory number assigned to that device, and the multi-functioncode service request, which is the input sequence 22 entered into thetelecommunications device to initiate the service.

[0039] In a mobile vending application, the data message should alsoinclude location data pertaining to the originating telecommunicationsdevice, such information identifying the MTSO and cell tower thatinitially received the communication from the telecommunications device.This allows the data fulfillment platform 30 to customize its responseby sending a mobile vending activation message to the appropriatevending machine 12, which is located in the coverage area of theidentified cell tower. This feature advantageously allows reuse of thevending codes in multiple locations served by different cell towers.

[0040] In step 2, the switch 26 delivers the data message 28 to the datafulfillment platform 30. The data message is typically delivered to thedata fulfillment platform using the conventional signaling system, suchas the SS7 signaling system used for most land-line systems, or the X-25signaling system used for most mobile systems in the United States andCanada. However, another type of data system could be used, such as theInternet, an intranet, or another suitable communications medium.

[0041] For example, the information needed to create the data message 28may be obtained from a conventional call detail record (CDR) created bythe switch 26. It will be appreciated that virtually alltelecommunications switches create CDRs as part of their normaloperations. These CDRs include the input sequence and the originatingdirectory number for all telecommunications calls originated by theswitch, and for MTSO systems include location information regarding theoriginating location of the call, and therefore contain the informationnecessary to assemble the data message 28. Accordingly, a proprietarydevice may read the information necessary to assemble the data message28 from a completed CDR, and the proprietary device may, in turn,assemble the data message 28. This may be advantageous to shift theprocessing burden associated with assembling the data message 28 fromthe switch 26 to the proprietary device. A completed CDR record may beread directly from the switch 26, or from another device, such as amediation device used to integrate the switch 26 with a billing systemcomputer in some applications. In addition, to reduce latency increation of the data message 28, it may also be advantageous to read thein-process CDRs as they are created by the switch 26, so that the datamessage 28 may be assembled contemporaneously with the handling of theincoming call by the switch. Those skilled in the art will appreciatethat a “sniffer” circuit or similar type of data tap may be installed onthe switch 26 to read and pass on in-process CDR information to theproprietary device.

[0042] The data fulfillment platform 30 receives the data message 28,and readily identifies the originating telecommunications device 24 fromthe directory number assigned to that device, which is included as partof the data message. The data fulfillment platform 30 also identifiesthe product code and the customer's PIN from the input sequence, whichis also part of the data message 28. The data fulfillment platform 30also identifies the location of the originating telecommunicationsdevice 24, which corresponds to the location of the vending machine 12,from the location data included in the data message 28. From theinformation, the data fulfillment platform 30 processes themulti-function code service request to complete the transaction.

[0043] More specifically, the data fulfillment platform 30 maintains aclient data base 32 containing customer profile data indexed to thedirectory number assigned to each customer's telecommunications device.Of course, another data item may be used as the indexing parameter solong as the information contained in the data message 28 is sufficientto identify the correct customer profile record in the client data base32. This customer profile record typically includes the directory numberassigned to the corresponding customer's telecommunications device (orother indexing parameter), the customer's PIN, payment authority (e.g.,credit account, debit account, wire transfer, or other paymentauthority), and may include other customer profile data to implementsecurity or other types of purchasing limits. For example, the customerprofile data may include spending limits, geographical use limits, andother suitable parameters for the data fulfillment platform 30 to use indetermining whether to validate and execute a received multi-functioncode service request. The customer may preferably access his or hercustomer profile data to change the parameters, including the customer'sPIN and other security parameters, on an as-needed basis. Additionalsecurity measures, such as encryption keys and other types of electronicidentification (e.g., storage and receipt of “mother's maiden name” andother techniques familiar to those skilled in the art), may beimplemented at the data fulfillment platform 30 to prevent unauthorizedaccess and alteration of customer profile data.

[0044] In step 3, the data fulfillment platform 30 validates thereceived multi-function code service request, typically verifying thatthe correct PIN is included in the input sequence 22. The datafulfillment platform 30 also determines whether to execute the purchasebased on the customer profile data, and by checking whether paymentauthority is presently valid for the amount of the requested purchase.If the request is valid and authorized, the data fulfillment platform 30charges the cost of the purchase to the customer's account. In step 4,the data fulfillment platform 30 credits the vendor's account for theamount of the purchase, which is typically entered into a customerdatabase 34 maintained or contacted by the data fulfillment platform 30.That is, the data fulfillment platform 30 completes the financialportion of the transaction by charging the customer's account, andcrediting the vendor's account, for the amount of the purchase.

[0045] In step 5, the data fulfillment platform 30 implements theresponse action, namely, remote activation of the vending machine 12 todeliver the purchased product to the customer. This is typicallyimplemented by sending a wireless data message from the data fulfillmentplatform 30 to the vending machine 12 over a wireless data network 36.Alternatively, a paging system, short messaging system associated with amobile telephone system, or other type of wireless data message may beused. In addition, if the vending machine 12 has some type of land-lineconnection, a land-line telephone, Internet or similar type of messagemay be used to activate the vending machine. The only requirement isthat the data fulfillment platform 30 be capable of remotely activatingthe vending machine 12, either directly or indirectly, after it hasverified the multi-function code service request and validated thepayment authorization, and in connection with completing the financialportion of the transaction.

[0046] Although the mobile vending system 10 is described above inconnection with a remotely operated vending machine 12, it should beappreciated that an analogous system could be used to implement acashless vending system without the use of physical vending machines.That is, the vending machine could be effectively replaced by a“cashless register” operated by a vendor, in which the activationmessage is replaced by a payment confirmation message. For example, apurchaser may enter a product code into his or her telecommunicationsdevice in a store environment, and the data fulfillment platform 30 maysend a payment confirmation message back to the vendor'stelecommunications device, after the data fulfillment platform 30 hasverified the multi-function code service request and validated thepayment authorization, and in connection with completing the financialportion of the transaction. In this manner, the vendor'stelecommunications device acts as a “cashless register” in a cashlessvending system.

[0047] In another alternative, the originating telecommunications device24 may serve as the receiving device for the response action to themulti-function code service request. Similarly, another machine, such asa home computer identified in the customer' profile, could serve as thereceiving device. This alternative is particularly useful forimplementing a delivery system for electronic information, such as news,music, multimedia, literature, and so forth. In addition, if the datadelivery is free, the PIN code and financial steps are not necessary,which simplifies the data fulfillment process. In this type ofapplication, the customer may simply enter a multi-function code servicerequest including an advertising code, and automatically receive a datatransmission corresponding to the advertising code. The system describedabove may be used to deliver virtually any type of data associated witha displayed advertising code, such as product information, drivingdirections, coupons, financial prospectus, inventory listing, safetyguidelines, repair instructions, schematic diagram, event tickets andaccess credentials, photograph, weather forecast, music file, and thelike. In addition, the customer may specify the receiving device for theinformation in his or her customer profile maintained in the clientdatabase 32. For example, a first device may be identified for receivingmusic, another device may be identified for receiving literature, and athird device may be identified for receiving weather or drivinginstructions. Because the customer may alter his or her customer profile“on the fly” using his or her telecommunications device to access thedata fulfillment platform 30, the system described has a greatflexibility and may be used for many types of data fulfillment services.

[0048]FIG. 2 is a functional diagram of a mobile web access serviceimplemented by the telecommunications initiated data fulfillment system10. This system is similar to the system described above, except that adisplayed advertising code is associated with an Internet, mobilebrowser or WAP address, and as the response action, the data fulfillmentplatform 30 initiates an interactive Internet session between theoriginating telecommunications device 24 and the Internet, mobilebrowser or WAP site identified by the advertising code. In other words,the customer simply enters the appropriate multi-function code servicerequest into his or her wireless telecommunications device, the datafulfillment platform 30 responds by initiating an interactive Internetsession with the originating telecommunications device 24 and pushing aWAP, mobile browser or Internet page back to the originatingtelecommunications device 24 to initiate the session. It should be notedthat the multi-function code service request may be entered with theoriginating telecommunications device 24 in an analog “normal telephone”mode. That communication is terminated to an announcement and thendiscontinued to free the originating telecommunications device 24 toreceive the incoming Internet, mobile browser or WAP page, which willtypically be received in a digital or “Internet” mode. Thus, thisapplication may be implemented on most WAP, mobile browser or Internetenabled wireless telecommunications devices without having to alter thedevice to include a modem or to accommodate on-line mode switching.

[0049] More particularly, in step one, the customer enters theappropriate input string 22, namely the multi-function code servicerequest described previously, into his or her telecommunications device24. The input string 22 is received at a trigger-enabledtelecommunications switch 26, such as an advanced intelligent network(AIN) enabled system switching point (SSP) or mobile telephone switchingoffice (MTSO). This switch is configured to detect and recognize the“*#” (star, pound) multi-function code as a trigger event. In responseto detecting the star, pound trigger event, the switch 26 holds the calland looks up an instruction set to implement. For example *#2 mayindicate a mobile web access instruction set.

[0050] The mobile web access instruction set typically instructs theswitch 26 to terminate the call to an appropriate announcement. Forexample, the announcement may state, “Your mobile web access has beenreceived and will be acted on immediately. Please place your device inan Internet mode, if appropriate, and keep it idle for a few moments.Thank you.” At the end of the announcement, the call is discontinued,which frees the customer's telecommunications device to receive anincoming or “pushed” WAP, mobile browser or Internet page, and engage inan Interactive Internet session. The mobile web access instruction setalso instructs the switch 26 to look up a data address, assemble a datamessage 28, and send the data message to the data address. For example,the data address may identify a data fulfillment platform 30 operated bythe proprietor of the telecommunications initiated data fulfillmentsystem 10. The data message typically includes the identifyinginformation for the originating telecommunications device 24, such asthe directory number assigned to that device, and the multi-functioncode service request, which is the input sequence 22 entered into thetelecommunications device to initiate the service. In a mobile webaccess application, the data message may not include the customer's PINor location data. However, these parameters may be included if financialand/or location-based processing is implemented. This might be the case,for example, if the accessed Internet site is a commercial site, such asan on-line shopping venue.

[0051] In step 2, the switch 26 delivers the data message 28 to the datafulfillment platform 30. The data message is typically delivered to thedata fulfillment platform using the conventional signaling system, suchas the SS7 signaling system used for most land-line systems, or the X-25signaling system used for most mobile systems in the United States andCanada. However, another type of data system could be used, such as theInternet, an intranet, or another suitable communications medium. Forexample, the information needed to create the data message 28 may beobtained from a conventional call detail record (CDR) created by theswitch 26, as described previously.

[0052] The data fulfillment platform 30 receives the data message 28,and readily identifies the originating telecommunications device 24 fromthe directory number assigned to that device, which is included as partof the data message. The data fulfillment platform 30 also identifiesthe advertised code, and optionally the customer's PIN from the inputsequence, which is also part of the data message 28. From theinformation, the data fulfillment platform 30 processes themulti-function code service request to complete the transaction.

[0053] In step 3, the data fulfillment platform 30 obtains theappropriate Internet, mobile browser or WAP address from a customer database 40, which indexes the displayed advertising code to an Internetaddress and an initial page location. In step 4, the data fulfillmentplatform 30, which in this application is operating as an InternetService Provider, links to the Internet, mobile browser or WAP address.In step 5, the data fulfillment platform 30 pushes the appropriate pageback to the originating telecommunications device 24 to initiate aninteractive Internet session.

[0054] In a variation of this service, a directory number assigned to aperson's wireless telecommunications device may serve as a “star, pound”WAP or mobile browser access code. That is, the input directory numbermay implement a voice-channel telephone call to the person's wirelesstelecommunications device, whereas the input of “star, pound” mayimplement a digital WAP or mobile browser communication to the samedevice. In this manner, any type of analog or digital information may beconveyed to a telecommunications device using the same directory number.Is should be appreciated that this dual-use directory number conceptwill greatly facilitate the integration of wireless telecommunicationsand wireless data functionality, and has the potential to greatly expandmobile computing capabilities.

[0055]FIG. 3 is a functional diagram of a mobile remote control serviceimplemented by a telecommunications initiated data fulfillment system.This system is virtually the same as the mobile vending system describedwith reference to FIG. 1, except that the customer's equipment may beremotely controlled with the system. For example, this system may beused to open car or garage doors, activate or deactivate securitysystems, program devices, and so forth. For example, this type of systemcould be used to remotely disable a stolen automobile, activate an alarmin the automobile, or to deter theft and aid in the apprehension of thethief. Alternatively, this type of system could be used to remotelyactivate a GPS tracking system and/or alarm system to help track andlocate missing persons or pets. On a different note, the system could beused to remotely disable telephones and televisions in a teenager's roomat a specified hour, disable vehicles or other appliances while ahomeowner is away, and so forth. Or it could be used to remotelyactivate pet or livestock feeding equipment, or turn on lawn sprinklers,or initiate data downloads, on demand or according to a set schedule.Indeed, the variety of useful applications for remotely controllingdevices using this technology is virtually limitless.

[0056]FIG. 4 is a functional diagram of a streamlined Internet accessservice implemented by a telecommunications initiated data fulfillmentsystem 10. This system is similar to the mobile web access systemdescribed with reference to FIG. 2, except that the originatingtelecommunications device 24 includes a modem 42, which allows thedevice to receive computer data over an analog telephone connection. Inaddition, the switch 26 does not terminate the incoming call to anannouncement, but instead looks up a directory number associated withthe input “star, pound” string, and routes the telecommunications callusing that directory number in the usual way. The switch 26 also placesthe input sequence (e.g., *#4 xxx yyy zzzz) in an available field in therouting message header, where it can be retrieved by the datafulfillment platform 30 when it receives the telecommunications call.

[0057] The switch 26 then routes the retrieved directory number, whichis assigned to the data fulfillment platform 30. In this alternative,the data fulfillment platform 30 operates as a conventional ISP, exceptthat it initiates the Internet session by linking the originatingtelecommunications device to an Internet page indicated by the inputsequence. That is, the data fulfillment platform 30 receives thetelecommunications call, maintains an open analog communication with theoriginating telecommunications device 24, and initiates an Internetsession between the originating telecommunications device and theInternet site identified by the input sequence. This is the same methodin which analog telephones are used to access the Internet, except thatthis streamlines the link to the Internet site identified by the inputsequence.

[0058] For the user of the originating telecommunications device 24,this streamlined Internet access service makes it easier to initiate anInternet session and link to a desired address. That is, the user simplyenters an input sequence comprising the appropriate multi-function codeservice request, and the Internet session automatically initiates with alink established to the Internet site identified by the input sequence.This system may also be modified to provide streamlined access tolocation-specific data. For example, a predefined “star, pound” code maybe used to obtain a road map, weather report, traffic report, or list ofrestaurants based on the current location of the originatingtelecommunications device 24.

[0059]FIG. 5 is an instruction set diagram illustrating an advancedintelligent network (AIN) and call detail record (CDR) alternativeimplementation methodologies for implementing a telecommunicationsinitiated data fulfillment system. This diagram illustrates the stepsthat are implemented by specific pieces of equipment to implement thetelecommunications initiated data fulfillment system 10 using currentlydeployed telecommunications infrastructure.

[0060] In instruction set 1, the AIN capability of SSP and MTSOtelecommunications devices is used to implement the telecommunicationsinitiated data fulfillment system. Specifically, an SSP or MTSO receivesthe incoming communication from the originating telecommunicationsdevice 24, and recognizes the multi-function code trigger event. The SSPor MTSO may then make an optional query to a service control point (SCP)or home location register (HLR) to determine whether the originatingtelecommunications device 24 is authorized to utilize the “star, pound”system, typically with reference to a subscriber database indexed by theoriginating directory number (i.e., the directory number assigned to theoriginating telephone device 24). If the originating telecommunicationsdevice 24 is not authorized to utilize the “star, pound” system, the SSPor MTSO terminates the call to an announcement, such as, “You will nowbe routed to a site where you can register for the star, pound service,”and then routes the call to an appropriate registration platform.

[0061] If the originating telecommunications device 24 is authorized toutilize the “star, pound” system, the SSP or MTSO terminates the call toan announcement, such as, “Your data request has been received and willbe acted on immediately. Thank you.” The SCP or HLR then looks up a dataaddress for the data fulfillment platform, assembles the appropriatedata message, and transmits the data message to the data fulfillmentplatform over the SS7 or X-25 signaling system.

[0062] Instruction set 2 is similar to instruction set 1, except that aproprietary device reads information from CDRs or in-process CDRs tocreate the data message. That is, the processing performed by the SCP orHLR in instruction set is shifted to a proprietary device. Specifically,an SSP or MTSO receives the incoming communication from the originatingtelecommunications device 24, and recognizes the multi-function codetrigger event. The SSP or MTSO may then make an optional query to aservice control point (SCP) or home location register (HLR) to determinewhether the originating telecommunications device 24 is authorized toutilize the “star, pound” system, typically with reference to asubscriber database indexed by the originating directory number (i.e.,the directory number assigned to the originating telecommunicationsdevice 24). If the originating telecommunications device 24 is notauthorized to utilize the “star, pound” system, the SSP or MTSOterminates the call to an announcement, such as, “You will now be routedto a site where you can register for the star, pound service,” and thenroutes the call to an appropriate registration platform.

[0063] If the originating telecommunications device 24 is authorized toutilize the “star, pound” system, the SSP or MTSO terminates the call toan announcement, such as, “Your data request has been received and willbe acted on immediately. Thank you.” The SSP or MTSO then discontinuesthe communication in the usual way, which triggers the creation of a CDRrecord. The proprietary device, referred to in FIG. 5 as the “*# AINprocessor” extracts information from the CDR or an in-process CDR at theswitch or at a mediation device. The proprietary device then looks up adata address for the data fulfillment platform, assembles theappropriate data message, and transmits the data message to the datafulfillment platform over the SS7 or X-25 signaling system.

[0064]FIG. 6 is a functional diagram of a telecommunications initiateddata fulfillment system illustrating features of a data fulfillmentdatabase. In particular, the telecommunications initiated datafulfillment system shown in FIG. 6 illustrates a *# ISP and datafulfillment center 30 that includes a fulfillment database 60, a clientdatabase 62, and Internet interconnection facilities with a plurality ofcustomer web sites 64. In this embodiment, the ISP and data fulfillmentcenter 30 includes all of the intelligence required to implement thetelecommunications initiated data fulfillment system, except *# triggerand messaging capability implemented, which is implemented at the SSPand MTSO devices that initially receive the multi-function code servicerequests. In addition, this SSP or MTSO based functionality may beunnecessary if another type of messaging system is used to deliver themulti-function code service requests from the originatingtelecommunications device 24 to the ISP and data fulfillment center 30,such as a wireless data network, e-mail, intranet, or any other suitabletype of messaging system. The only requirement for implementing thetelecommunications initiated data fulfillment system is that the messagethat reaches the data fulfillment center 30 include two pieces ofinformation, the input sequence (i.e., multi-function code servicerequest initiated by the originating telecommunications device 24) andidentification information for the originating telecommunications device24, such as the directory number assigned to the device.

[0065]FIG. 7 is a functional diagram of a telecommunications initiateddata fulfillment system illustrating features implemented by an SCP orHLS. In this alternative, a large portion of the intelligence necessaryto implement the telecommunications initiated data fulfillment systemillustrating features of a data fulfillment database is implemented bythe SSP and MTO devices through a switch-based translation table 72 andSCP (e.g., for SSP land-line systems) or HLR (e.g., for MTSO wirelesssystems). Those skilled in the art will recognize that the location ofthe intelligence is a design choice for the telecommunications initiateddata fulfillment system, and will in most applications be driven by thetype of entity that is implementing the system. In particular, regionaltelephone operating companies will most likely prefer the deploymentshown in FIG. 7, whereas independent service providers will most likelyprefer the deployment shown in FIG. 6.

[0066] In another application, the system described herein may be usedto implement an abbreviated dialing system. For example, using a doublefunction dialing prefix with a single or multi-digit identifier codethat enables individual coding which can be used in both wireless, data,and PSTN networks to create a super ID that is tagged to an individualand super-imposes over all device IDs the individual may possess, but isshort enough to memorize for the general population (less than 10 digitsbeyond dialed prefix). This is unique in that it can represent bothmessaging and real-time communications contacts so that voice, data,video, text, and other forms of communications can reach an individualrepresented by this ID, not just wireless and PSTN calls or voicemessages. Additionally, this number can be entered into a myriad ofdevices such as a wireless phone, PDA, PSTN phone, 2-way pager, web orIP-enabled device, or video-phone.

[0067] In another application, the system described herein may be usedto implement a personal directory number system in which a singlemulti-function code directory number may link to multiple devices ordevice addresses used by the customer assigned that particular personaldirectory number. For example, entry of the designated multi-functioncode plus the customer's personal directory number (i.e., Individual ID)from an originating telecommunication device triggers the launch of thecustomer's personal contact web page (i.e., individual homepage) andautomatic link or push of that page back to the originatingtelecommunication device. This personal contact web page, which iscustomizable by the customer, includes the data addresses for multiplecommunications devices, prioritized contact addresses, time-of-day basedcontact instructions, and so forth, for communicating with the customer.In addition, the identity of the originating telecommunication devicemay be used as a prioritizing or indexing parameter by the customer'spersonal contact web page. For example, the page may display thespecific addresses, trigger a conference call, trigger an e-mail instantmessaging session, or accept a voice or data message mail, a document, apicture, a music file, or any other suitable type of electronicinformation.

[0068] In particular, a user may enter someone else's Individual ID viamanual, directory, or voice, into their cell phone and have thatperson's individual homepage be delivered via but, not limited to email,web, XML, or WAP. The individual's homepage can contain any informationthe individual wanted to present, but will also contain a“communications cockpit” which will enable the user to contact theindividual through both voice and data means and through any device theindividual has tagged under his/her universal ID communications umbrellawhich may include printers, vehicle communication, or home communicationdevices. These device IDs can be hidden from the user therebyeliminating need to list multiple contact numbers or addresses andprotects anonymity.

[0069] The individual will also have the capability of determining rulesfor prioritizing, filtering, screening, and routing real-timecommunications and messaging via, but not limited to voice, email, fax,instant messaging, data, WAP, XML, HTML, and file transfer. This isunique in that universal messaging and single number services exist, butare not combined to provide a complete communications and messagingsolution for individuals.

[0070] The system described herein combines the capabilities of both onenumber services and integrated messaging, and covers both voice and datacommunications, enables rules to be built governing when, where, how,and who can communicate with the individual using a myriad of differentcommunications and messaging capabilities while being able to prioritizeand select the best method available with the technology to reach toindividual from any device that is connected to a wireless, wired voice,data, or IP network.

[0071] For example, an individual is sitting at a ball game at sixo'clock in the afternoon on a Wednesday. A user decides to contact anindividual for the first time by entering the Universal ID for theindividual. The data fulfillment platform enables a WAP screen pop ofthe customer's homepage on the user's originating telecommunicationsdevice, in this example a WAP enabled wireless device. This WAP screenoffers the user the ability to communicate with the individual in amyriad of ways through wireless interaction with the customer'shomepage, such as: tag delivery as urgent, normal, or later delivery;real-time via voice, video, or instant messaging; messaging via voice,email, fax, video, or text. In addition, the customer will have thecapability of setting rules within his or her homepage to implement thefollowing: time based filtering and screening; priority filtering andscreening; automatic number identification (ANI) based filtering andprioritizing; recognition of universal ID of individual contactingfiltering and screening; real-time filtering and screening; dynamicrouting of contact; translation text to speech, speech to text, andvideo to voice; prioritization of reception device based upon all above.For example, one possible prioritization scheme might be: after 6 PM allcontacts are messaging to 2-way pager, but if “wife” (Universal ID*#1234567891) or recognized universal IDs marked “urgent” contacts, sendto cell phone, if that does not answer send to home phone, if no answer,send to 2-way pager. Of course, a virtually unlimited number ofdifferent customer definable prioritization and screening schemes may beimplemented using the systems and methods described herein.

[0072] In another application, the system described herein may be usedto implement a geographic positioning and mapping system using wirelessnetworks, wireless cell towers, and other GPS-like mapping systems todetermine location of objects. In particular, the emergency “911” lawsare forcing carriers to map the location of users for emergency servicesusing GPS and speed/distance from cell tower location based mappingsystems, but this only locates users and does not map objects. Bylabeling objects with a specific code and using a multi-function codeprefix, objects can be coded and the specific object that the userdesires can be mapped. By labeling a fixed location object, a user canthen identify their location to that object for further action. Bymapping an object to a specific location or grid, the object identifiergrid system can be much smaller that traditional grid systems such asarea or zip code. By localizing object mapping and using the wirelessinfrastructure, the grid system can shorten the object identifier toless than 5 digits, but remain universal throughout the planet.

[0073] In another application, the system described herein may be usedto implement user-determined soft switching using a wireless network,separating routing over network based on the presence or absence of amulti-function code dialing prefix. For example, by entering amulti-function code dialed prefix or key word via manual, directory, orvoice, the user can select the purpose of usage over a wirelessprovider's network; internet, communication via voice, communication viatext, or voice, video, or text messaging using the same data or voicenetwork. This is unique in that today, the methodology is to complete acall or to specifically enable a data connection via the wirelessdevice, but not to be able to allow the user to determine the format andmethod of information delivery (messaging) and real-time communication.By enabling user requested functionality, legacy switches can routespecial function “information actions” through a data network to aplatform to fulfill the user requested function while maintaining theexisting wireless network for voice traffic.

[0074] It should be understood that the foregoing relates only to theexemplary embodiments of the present invention, and that numerouschanges may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scopeof the invention as defined by the following claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method for implementing atelecommunications initiated data fulfillment system comprising thesteps of: receiving a communication comprising an input sequenceincluding a multifunction key sequence from a telecommunications device;recognizing the multi-function key sequence as a trigger code;identifying an identification code associated with the telecommunicationdevice; looking up a pre-defined data address associated with the inputsequence, the identification code, or a combination of the inputsequence and the identification code; assembling a data messageassociated with the input sequence, the identification code, or acombination of the input sequence and the identification code;transmitting the data message to the data address; and implementing aresponse action in response to the data message.
 2. The method of claim1, further comprising the steps of: using the identification code toidentify an account associated with the telecommunications device; andcharging a cost associated with the data message to the accountassociated with the telecommunications device.
 3. The method of claim 2,further comprising the step of activating a vending device in responseto the data message.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the step ofactivating the vending device further comprises the steps of:identifying a product code from a predefined set of digits in the inputsequence; and activating the vending device to deliver a productassociated with the product code in response to the data message.
 5. Themethod of claim 3, further comprising the steps of: looking up apre-defined personal identification number associated with thetelecommunications device; identifying a PIN-sequence from a predefinedset of digits in the input sequence; and comparing the personalidentification number to the PIN-sequence.
 6. The method of claim 1,further comprising the steps of: delivering an audio or data response tothe telecommunications device; and discontinuing the communication. 7.The method of claim 1, wherein: the input sequence comprises a directorynumber associated with an Internet site; and responding to the datamessage by initiating an Internet session between the telecommunicationsdevice and the Internet site.
 8. The method of claim 7, furthercomprising the step of forwarding the communication to a platformoperated by an Internet service provider.
 9. The method of claim 1,further comprising the steps of: receiving location data associated withthe telecommunications device; and customizing an action taken inresponse to the data message based on the location data.
 10. The methodof claim 1, further comprising the steps of: looking up customer profiledata corresponding to the identification code associated with thetelecommunications device; and wherein the pre-defined data addresscomprises a user-defined portion of the customer profile data.
 11. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising the steps of: detecting that thetelecommunications device does not correspond to a subscriber of thetelecommunications initiated data fulfillment service; and automaticallylinking the telecommunications device to a platform configured toregister the user of the telecommunications device as a subscriber ofthe telecommunications initiated data fulfillment service.
 12. Themethod of claim 1, wherein: the pre-defined data address is retrievedfrom a home location register associated with a mobile telephone; andthe data message is delivered to the data address through a signalingsystem message.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein: the identificationcode associated with the telecommunication device is extracted from acall detail record created by a telecommunications switch receiving thecommunication; and the pre-defined data address is retrieved from aproprietary database maintained by a provider of the telecommunicationsinitiated data fulfillment service.
 14. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising the step of responding to the data message by transmitting acontrol signal to operate a remote device.
 15. The method of claim 1,wherein the input sequence comprises a displayed item code associatedwith a product or service offered for sale, further comprising the stepsof responding to the data message by: looking up an e-mail addressassociated with the telecommunications device; and responding to thedata message by transmitting an electronic message including promotionalinformation concerning the product or service offered for sale to theaddress associated with the telecommunications device.
 16. The method ofclaim 1, wherein: a telecommunications switch receives the communicationfrom the telecommunications device; the telecommunications switchcreates the data message; the data message includes the input sequenceand a directory number associated with the telecommunications device;the telecommunications switch transmits the data message to a datafulfillment platform; and the data fulfillment platform responds to thedata message.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the data messagecomprises information derived from a call detail record.
 18. The methodof claim 16, wherein the data message comprises information derived froman in-process call detail record.
 19. The method of claim 16, whereinthe telecommunications switch transmits as a signaling system message.20. A system configured to perform the method of claim
 1. 21. A methodfor implementing a telecommunications initiated data fulfillment servicecomprising the steps of: entering an input sequence including amulti-function key sequence using a telecommunications device; receivinga communication comprising the input sequence at a telecommunicationsswitch, and at the switch: recognizing the multi-function key sequenceas a trigger code, holding the communication, looking up an instructionset identified by the input sequence, delivering an audio or datamessage to the telecommunications device, discontinuing thecommunication, identifying an identification code associated with thetelecommunications device, assembling a data message comprising theinput sequence and the identification code, and transmitting the datamessage; and receiving the data message at a data fulfillment center,and at the data fulfillment center: looking up a pre-defined dataaddress associated with the input sequence, the identification code, ora combination of the input sequence and the identification code,identifying a response action associated with the input sequence, theidentification code, or a combination of the input sequence and theidentification code, and implementing the response action.
 22. Themethod of claim 21, wherein the message is a call detail record, furthercomprising the steps of: transmitting the call detail record from theswitch to a mediation device; extracting the call detail record from themediation device; and delivering the call detail record to the datafulfillment center.
 23. The method of claim 21, wherein the data messagecomprises information derived from an in-process call detail record,further comprising the steps of: creating the in-process call detailrecord at the switch; extracting information from the call detail recordfrom the switch; and delivering the information extracted from the calldetail record to the data fulfillment center.
 24. The method of claim21, wherein: the input sequence comprises a directory number associatedwith an Internet site; and the response action comprises initiating anInternet session between the telecommunications device and the Internetsite.
 25. The method of claim 21, wherein: the input sequence comprisesa displayed item code associated with a product or service offered forsale; and the response action comprises transmitting an electronic mailmessage including promotional information concerning the product orservice offered for sale.
 26. The method of claim 21, further comprisingthe steps of: using the identification code to identify an accountassociated with the telecommunications device; and charging a costassociated with the data message to the account associated with thetelecommunications device.
 27. The method of claim 21, furthercomprising the steps of: receiving location data associated with thetelecommunications device; and customizing the response action inresponse to the data message based on the location data.
 28. The methodof claim 21, further comprising the steps of: looking up customerprofile data corresponding to the identification code associated withthe telecommunications device; and wherein the pre-defined data addresscomprises a user-defined portion of the customer profile data.
 29. Themethod of claim 21, further comprising the steps of: detecting that thetelecommunications device does not correspond to a subscriber of thetelecommunications initiated data fulfillment service; and automaticallylinking the telecommunications device to a platform configured toregister the user of the telecommunications device as a subscriber ofthe telecommunications initiated data fulfillment service.
 30. Themethod of claim 29, wherein the response action comprises the step oftransmitting a control signal to operate a remote device.
 31. A systemconfigured to perform the method of claim 21.